characterization of Macbeth

The reader is first introduced to Macbeth when the captain speaks of his bravery and we are lead to believe he is a strong warrior. The reader later can start to see a pattern that allows his self doubt and insecurities to start to show. Macbeth is so easily swayed by different people and situations. When Macbeth had talked himself out of the murder he then was easily talked back into the crime by lady Macbeth. All she had to do was call him a coward and a woman to convince him back into committing this murder. Whatever Macbeth focuses on he is great at. When he was focusing on being a soldier he was amazing and strong. Macbeth uses inspiration and motivation and channels it all into one task which is why he is so easily swayed. Macbeth also gets swayed by the three witches. Macbeth was so pleased with his accomplishments but once he had reason to believe the witches’ prophecies he was consumed with desire for more. Before Macbeth heard the prophecy he had no thoughts of killing the king to gain power. He was focused on his duties to the king but as soon and the seed was planted in his head he needed more. It is hard to tell if this was actually his destiny or if it was just the saying of it that made him act on it, thus making it his destiny. I think Shakespeare made Macbeth have this weakness with the intention of making him relatable and human. It makes the reader question what would I do in this particular situation. This characteristic of weakness and insecurities are in all of us. Macbeth’s doubt and need to follow what is expected of him is what causes him to be so powerful and made him so successful but it is also what made him carry out actions that were not ok with him and I believe will eventually lead to his downfall.